Fourth of July events in Rockford still on despite rain, Highland Park parade shooting

Ken DeCoster, Rockford Register Star
·2 min read
Following the deadly shooting at a Fourth of July parade Monday morning in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park, Rockford Mayor Tom McNamara, seen here walking in Rockford's parade on July 4, 2021, said the city's police department is prepared to provide whatever security is necessary for the city's celebration, scheduled for Monday evening in downtown Rockford.

ROCKFORD  — The city of Rockford's Independence Day parade and fireworks show were held despite the threat of severe weather and a deadly mass shooting that took place earlier today in another Illinois town.

At least six people were shot to death and dozens more injured after a shooting took place Monday morning during a Fourth of July parade in downtown Highland Park, about 25 miles from Chicago and 85 miles from Rockford.

Several parades and fireworks shows planned for the Chicago area on Monday were canceled due to the tragedy.

The National Weather Service also issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Winnebago and part of Boone counties at 3 p.m. through 4:30 p.m. and again at 8:30 p.m. through 10:15 p.m. .

Rockford's parade, which was scheduled to kick off at 5 p.m. at Seventh Street and Sixth Avenue, started about 5:30 p.m.

More: Are you ready for Rockford’s Fourth of July celebration? Here's what you need to know

The city's fireworks show was held at its scheduled time of 9:30 p.m.

In the aftermath of Monday's mass shooting, Mayor Tom McNamara issued a statement confirming the city's Independence Day activities would go on as planned.

“While today's shooting in Highland Park was horrific, it is the type of incident we plan for when handling security for large events," McNamara said. "The safety of the participants and the public is at the forefront of all decision making. Our incredible police officers will be on the streets working to ensure our community remains safe."

After an hourslong manhunt, police arrested suspected gunman Robert "Bobby" E. Crimo III. Crimo was taken into custody about 6:30 p.m. Monday after a brief chase in the northern Chicago suburb of Lake Forest.

According to the FBI, Crimo has ties to Rockford, DeKalb and Elgin.

The Rockford Fire Department marches down East State Street during the city's annual Fourth of July parade on Sunday, July 4, 2021, in Rockford.
The Rockford Fire Department marches down East State Street during the city's annual Fourth of July parade on Sunday, July 4, 2021, in Rockford.

Ken DeCoster: kdecoster@rrstar.com; @DeCosterKen

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Rockford July 4th parade, fireworks still on after Chicago shooting